Private Tour: Jim Thompson House and Suan Pakkad Palace Museum Tour

Bangkok, Thailand

Book this half-day tour to visit classical Thai houses with steep roofs arching upward toward the sky, the two best places in Bangkok are the Jim Thompson House (King of Thai Silk); and Suan Pakkard Palace or "Palace of the Lettuce Garden". Today both of them are museums having huge collection of Thai traditional arts, antiques, paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.

Your tour will begin with a hotel pickup by your English speaking guide at 9 am. From there, your first stop will be at the Jim Thompson House. This legendary Thai-style house was founded by James H.W. Thompson, a successful entrepreneur that was pivotal in redeveloping the silk industry of Thailand. See the beautiful exterior as you approach, built from teak wood with Thai architectural style and surrounded by lush green trees. An accompanying pond and beautiful garden make this house a serene sight against the nearby jungle landscape. You will also see Jim Thomson's collection of fine arts and antiques on display, such as Buddhist sculptures, traditional Thai paintings, Burmese art, Sukhothai/Suwankalok pieces, and Benjaong artwork. 
Next, we'll proceed to Suan Pakkad Palace Museum or the "Palace of the Lettuce Garden" opened to public in 1959. This locale is a former royal residence consisting of eight traditional Thai teak wood houses as well as an elegant garden. The palace contains a collection of fine arts as well as a number of ancient artifacts. The Lacquer Pavillion, originally built in Ayuthaya during the mid-17th century, was dismantled and rebuilt at the palace compound here. Gaze upon a collection of Ban Chiang artifacts, dating back to 3600 BC, portraying Thailand's ancient cultural heritage with its pottery, iron/bronze tools, and glass ornaments. Next is the Marsi Gallery which exhibits a number of contemporary artworks. Inside the palace you will also be able to view the Royal Barge named "Koo Kung Bayam". At approximately 1 pm, you'll arrive back at your hotel in Bangkok City where the tour will conclude.